The overwhelming evidence from case studies and surveys of public private partnership projects that are now in the contract management phase reveals that the development of a successful partnership relationship is fundamental to the success of the project. While the parties may encounter delays, defects and other obstacles common to projects for the development and/or operation of assets or provision of services, the key to successful resolution of those difficulties will be the establishment of an effective partnership between government and the private party. Government's aim should be to achieve open and effective communication and project management, and foster a genuine desire to work together to achieve 'value for money' outcomes.
The case studies in figure 9.1 illustrate how this has been addressed in the United Kingdom's Scottish Schools PFI program.